Roku reveals tiny Streaming Stick media player

Roku, the company responsible for the popular palm-size set-top box, revealed an even smaller device to stream Internet media to your television.

The thumb-drive-size Roku Streaming Stick doesn't require extra cables, a power cord or even a separate remote control. It will feature built-in Wi-Fi, a processor, memory and the software that delivers Roku’s growing collection of streaming entertainment -- including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, HBO, Pandora and more.

The device will plug directly into a TV’s HDMI port. Unfortunately, only newer HDTV’s built with an MHL-enabled HDMI ports will accommodate the Roku Streaming Stick. MHL is a new standard that uses the HDMI connector on TVs to deliver power to the connected devices. This allows the Streaming Stick to work without a power cable. The good news is MHL is a growing standard, available on most newer HDTVs.

Roku hasn't mentioned whether the Streaming Stick will handle 720-pixel or 1080-pixel video, but it’s probably safe to expect full HD. Price hasn’t been announced yet, but look to spend between $50 and $100. Roku Streaming Stick is set to debut to the public sometime during second half of this year.